The joys of dealing with AA
Guess I'll just see what happens. Since I won't actually have checked bags I'm not too worried. It's just if QR considers my carry on too heavy and forces me to check it, will it be a problem
The AA rep who chatted with you had Zero clue on what is the issue. You probably would get better result by calling and explain it to the phone agent, ask the agent to see the bag allowance section.
An F ticket does NOT give you free checked bag in all airlines - each airline has its own policy not to mention in QR system, partner award ticket is at the Very Bottom of the Totem Pole. You will be the first to be bumped if they need to unload some passengers. Happened many times and being reported on the net here and elsewhere. You are second class citizen in QR's eyes.