Have a similar issue:
Flying on 2 separate AA awards (2 PNRs) SFO-LAX(AA)-NRT(JL) and then NRT-SYD(JL)-BNE(QF).
Based on AA's new policy it seems that I will not be able to have my luggage checked all the way through; it seems that they will tag it to NRT where I will have to re-check it (immigration/customs/luggage pick up/re-check).
Obviously, I would much rather spend the 2 hr 40 min connection in JL F lounge instead.
Is there any way that JL can "re-tag" my luggage in LAX to go all the way to SYD/BNE without me picking up and rechecking it in NRT?
Any advice appreciated