I think a kit with two batteries ,two atomizing devices and one or two chargers is a smart investment for anyone.It sure does bite to break your one and only anything just as you are getting into vaping and have to wait on the delivery person.
Welcome ,good idea.Finding the perfect liquid is the hardest part.I have found you can get pretty good vapor from about any device but the liquid is the key to success.
You can use Ego,Joye 306 or Joye 510 atomisers with your battery,a drip tip to fit whichever one you choose and a bottle of tasty eliquid is all you need.Three or four drops on the bridge and vape away.
What you are reffering to is called the bridge,it's purpose is to wick liquid from the filler in the cart. to the vicinity of the wick and element.So it should appear wet with liquid.As far as the caramel smell ,a lot of liquids use a caramel flavoring as in RY4 so whether that is normal depends on the liquid you are using.As long as it is not a bunt smell it should be ok.Hope that answered your questions.
That is in the range.It depends a lot on the liquid and how much you use it .Mine last 3 to 7 days and then the quantity and quality of the vapor goes down.Darker liquids seem to funk them up quicker for me.
I wouldn't.Pliers on the replaceable atomiser is the best I can come up with.Not sure hot water would do any good anyhow.A hair dryer would do the same thing without shorting it out.