vermont castings grate assembly model 1302

[beans]

Hi- this is my first post, maybe someone can help. I just installed an early vermont castings Intrpid l woodstove. Found this stove in new condition, used rarely, kind of small but perfect for my needs. This stove has an ash pan located under the grate, there are three horizontal bars holding the grate. When removing the ash pan I hit the bottom of the bars. I cannot figure how to install these bars where the ash drawer will clear it. Am I crazy or could these bars be installed wrong and ther is something simple I am missing- Thanks-Beans