Autoflower vs Photoperiod flowers?

So sometimes autos can act like photos—- switch the light schedule to 12/12 and leave it

No, they flower exactly the same as photoperiod plant. Pre flowers/primordia should present just the same on autos as they do on photoperiod plants. Without any clear close up pictures of the preflowers on your plant, it is difficult to see exactly what your plant is showing, but if the preflowers appear to be growing on small stems, they could be male flowers and this might explain the lack of pistils/hairs. Hope this helps, Organoman.