Hey tschrag,
that would be my sorrow too. But I have seen that many people make a cover for the rails and ball screws, even when the machine is operated horizontally. See a few examples here.
I think you could swap them so that the oil ports are on the other side.
Yes, that’s what I generally think. I cannot imagine if you use the machine more or less seriously, a vertical mounting of worksurface can be a source of joy. I think it is a solution if you really have not the room but see yourself in the urgent need to use the machine anyway.
good point.