Thanks MathFox, Background Noise and Kiltrash for your input; all helpful and positive so we'll give it a go.
MathFox I understand AA's plan B but that does depend on available seats!
I realised we had to change from TBIT to T4 or T5 and hearing Background Noise's experience helps a lot.
Kiltrash the plan is out to Hawaii then back via Washington and New York. Would stay longer but have to be back for RIAT!
Incidentally the last time I went to LAX was with Laker so what little knowledge retained is well out of date.....