The lift is required for 35’s. These tires are big and don’t think you can put them on without the lift. As for the speedometer, I did not recalibrate it but definitely the tire size does change what your speedometer reads.
The spare rim was a 17 on a standard steel rim. I just ordered an 18 Overland rim on eBay so when I get it I’ll add the spare tire and post a pic. Seems like the spare will fit fine underneath.