As-Salaam Aleykum,
1) Taqlid is wajib. It is wajib because we as the average Muslim do not know all the rules and regulations, jurisprudence and requirements that Allah has of us.
2) I'm not sure about if you will go to hell or whatever. InShaAllah someone more enlightened that myself will clarify.
3) You simply find someone who is a Marja and see their opinion on certain topics. The stricter, the better because you are less likely to stray from the path of righteousness. You find the most knowledgeable Marja and follow his rulings.
But remember, their rulings are not divin