Phasers

Hi all, sorry if this is a newbie question, but I'm traveling DFW-Beirut this summer. I leave 6/25 and come back 7/11.

I'm wanting to do a challenge but I have a few questions. I've read the wiki and the forums but I am still not sure. Here are the details:

I'd be doing DFW-ORD, ORD-AMM, AMM-BEY.

DFW--> ORD is AA Metal / AA Flight / Fare Class M (802 EQM/EQP)
ORD--> AMM is Royal Jordanian Metal /AA Codeshare / Fare Class M (~6800 EQM/EQP)
AMM--> BEY is Exclusively Royal Jordanian Metal (No AA) / Fare Class M (131 EQM/EQP)

The return flights are a bit different on the fare classes. They earn 100% mileage but only 50% EQP.
BEY--> AMM is Exclusively Royal Jordanian Metal (No AA) / Fareclass S (~130 EQM / 65 EQP)
AMM--> ORD is Royal Jordanian Metal /AA Codeshare / Fare Class S (~6800 EQM / 3400 EQP)
ORD--> DFW is AA Metal / AA Flight / Fareclass Q (802 EQM/ 401 EQP).


Here are my questions:
1) So from my understanding since the long haul flights are AA codeshare they will earn EQP towards the challenge?
2) Would I be better off doing a Gold Challenge then upgrading halfway through to the Plat since my first half will get me the 5,000 Points needed for gold?
3) When do you start recieving the benefits? For example, if I do a Gold or Plat challenge, would I recieve the bonus miles for status on the flight I attained the status on or on my next full flight? This also relates to #2
4) Since I am traveling after 6/16/2010 I will have status through Feb 2012 correct?
5) Also, can I request a challenge after booking my flights?
6) Will I earn any 500 mile upgrades for flying 10,000 miles/points on this trip?Thanks in advance for your help...