I just had my first ever experience making a partner reservation (domestic , UsAir)through LP using my bonus miles. FWIW, here is my experience:

first I called LP with specific dates and cities......TOOOOO FRUSTRATING.......I'd always get "call back in a couple of days" A couple of days later I'd get "call back in a couple of days" Then finally..."those dates aren't available....try another day"

Next I tried making the reservation directly with Usair using LP miles ...that didn't work.

Finally I told LP make me a reservation on the next available date, and just pick out any cities......when they finally made the reservation I called usair to change to the cities and dates I wanted. They(UsAir) tell you which dates are available and you get to choose right then and there.

here's the $64 question..........when I made the changes they ask "would you like us to issue you the ticket".......can they do that? I wonder what would happen if I say yes?..how many miles would they charge? (I have no dividend miles...so it has to be LP miles).....it sure as hell beats farting around with LP!!!! LP said only they can issue tickets and make changes..and in fact still had my original itinerary even though it no longer existed!!!