iwant: I was wrestling with the same question since our IAH-LAX-SYD trip is coming up as well. We are probably going to check our bags in IAH all the way through to avoid the LAX chaos that has been accurately described. Even though we have a long layover like you do, we're going to give CO and QF the benefit of the doubt and meet some friends for dinner while we are in LAX. Enjoy your trip!