Tacoma mod from cali

Hey all - 22 y/o M from Cali here looking to mod my 2000 toyota tacoma trd v6 3.4L 4x4 extra cab.

I am looking to lift and add new tires, I have done a LOT of research and I have stalked a few forums for a while now reading about this. I wanted to get a direct response to my specific situation, since I know most of you are seasoned vets when it comes to toyo mods.

I drive prolly 90% on road (almost all highway), and use my truck for work as well as play. I like to take it up to the sierras and 4x4 in to some lakes, and occasionally my job (engineer) requires me to drive to very remote (4x4 in), high altitude dams in the sierras.

I have been quoted 2k out the door for a revtech 3" sl with 4 new 33" Big-O mud tires on my stock rims, all installed/aligned, etc.After reading, I think they may be playing me, since I think those tires will actually rub.

My questions for all of you are:

1.) Does a lift kit and bigger tires really make that much of a difference in off-road capability vs. stock 4x4 trd?

2.) Does a 33 vs. 32 in tire really matter that much?

3.) Is a revtech 3" spacer lift really that much worse in terms of ride quality/reliability/capabilty than an OME caliber coilover + AAL?

4.) Is it hard to trim to fit 33" on that revtech lift?

5.) What do you guys think about saving money and buying retread tires? like these: http://www.treadwright.com/shopnow/product/tabid/61/productid/74/sename/28575r16-guard-dog-mt-e.aspx

SORRY FOR THE HUGE post, hope you guys can share some of your knowledge!