New wheel clarification

Another basic question, as I am confusing myself

I have a 1988 Peugeot racer. I bought a new freewheel for it, but in the process of attaching it I realised the back wheel is pretty screwed up - so i'd like to just replace the whole wheel.

All the rear wheels I have looked at say they can accept a 5,6,7 or 8 speed freewheel. If I used the 6 speed freewheel I already have, would I need anything else? I get the impression I need a spacer? Or do I just get a 8 speed freewheel at the same time?

If I got an 8 speed would there be deraileur issues? I have friction gears, so moving between cogs not an issue as it would be with indexed shifting.

Related posts: viewtopic.php?f=12&t=240890 - the new freewheel
viewtopic.php?t=220146 - my bike

My initial plan of fixing this up cheaply isnt going too well!

Ha! Forget budget and slap that cash out!

Don't go 8 speed; it won't fit and you'll have issues. Your 6 speed will fit straight onto a new wheelset providing they accept a freewheel and not a cassette. 7 speed should also be fine. Mech should be fine will just need to adjust the limit screws.

Thanks - ordered a pretty cheap wheel just to keep me going.