I booked a reservation for myself and a partner traveling from EWR - BKK via NRT. I had some questions regarding maximizing my itienerary.

1) Will I have access to the EWR Polaris lounge? I am a 1K and my upgrade was confirmed for EWR - NRT on Polaris. My ticket was bought in the W class.
2) What time should I get to EWR to enjoy the new Polaris lounge? Flight leaves at 11AM on 7/4 on UA79.
3) The only upgrade currently confirmed is EWR - NRT, is there anything I should order/request beforehand? I understand Polaris has been going through some cuts and some things are now "on-demand".
4) Which lounge is the best to enjoy in Tokyo? There is a 3 hour layover from !:55PM to 5PM.
5) What's the best way to select seats on ANA? At the check in counter in Japan?
6) I selected seats 5D and 5G, can I do better?
7) Anything I can do to improve my chances on the NRT - EWR leg? I am wait-listed currently.

Thanks again everyone and please do let me know if there is anything else I should look out for or be aware of.