Maybe not enough room for you but on the Grenadier they mount the spare wheel the opposite way round and have a storage area in the wheel hollow.

I read it as they came down the section to the left of the waterfall going downhill, which is slightly less steep

My experience with terrafirma shocks and springs would say there no where near as good as ome stuff. Springs rust massively quick and shocks snap pins or leak fluid from new. Had 2 sets of terrafirma shocks replaced under warranty before ditching...

Just used rtv silicone on mine with no issues.

Remove the swivel seal and let grease drip out. Refit seal and fill with new grease. Make sure to turn the wheels so new grease passes the goes into the swivel and not on top of it.

My thermostat opens at 85’ on an analogue dial. That equates to 3/4 the way up the Land Rover temp dial