1. You have to use the "metal thing" from the orginal air cooler in the middle with the longer swiftech screws and orig. springs. there is only a picture in the manual without detailed infos
2. Nope, because i tested several blocks for a review i use always the same paste
3. yes, i just mounted the block for my test followed by 2-3 other blocks afterwards
4. Exactly, the sticker looks good and smooth.
Performance is very good