We did exactly that going out to Portugal last year. We were told that EU regulations state that the poor little baggage handlers do not have to pick up anything heavier than 32KG, therefore we couls quite happily check in our luggage weighing over that, however it would not get put on the plane!
We ended up putting some of our luggae into carrier bags at the airport in front of everyone!
Don't risk it, take a suitcase each!