Rabbitman I do not know how strict EL AL is now but 40 years ago I was flying from London to New York on Air India. BOAC (now British Airways) were responsible in checking the baggage.I was a kid and many kilos overweight. The BOAC Agent wanted to charge me "excess baggage." So I told her OK then I want to change my ticket over to EL AL. I knew that EL AL had a flight at the same time and in those days you could switch with no problem.

She seemed upset and said OK but I will call EL AL and tell them that you are "overweight" and your way to their counter. When I arrived at the EL AL counter they said nothing and charged me 0.

Of course I have no idea how they are nowadays in regards to excess baggage. But your question reminded me of this experience.