I don't recall having those options when I got my struts. I assume any of them will work.
I fabbed the strut mounting plates to simplify the next strut replacement. It is absolutely not necessary to the project. I made that point perfectly clear in the original write up.
My opinions about tire sizes are also well stated in the original write up. I am on my second set of 215/85R15 tires. I have no relevant opinion about tire brands or tread patterns.
It's been 6 or 7 years and 30K miles since the lift. I recently replaced both front half-shafts because that was cheaper than replacing just the torn boots. The CV joints themselves were fine.
I don't believe the boot failures were exacerbated by the lift. And, FWIW, I was able to R&R the half-shafts without removing the wheels or disassembling the hubs and steering knuckles.
Lastly, I still haven't found a good solution to the rear shock problem. I am currently running some units that have the correct upside-down mount configuration and are a couple inches longer than stock, but they will top out at full droop.