Lots of questions on an old thread. I'd start a new thread for your questions over at the mechanics forum or C+V (bring photos).
A lot depends on whether you have canti or side-pull brake calipers, a freewheel or freehub back wheel, if you can do the work yourself or must pay a shop, etc. Nothing on your list is beyond what you would want to know how to do in order to be self-reliant on tour so I'd consider doing the work yourself, just for the education.