I would try my mixing times above in the article. But it sounds like you need to mix longer on "speed 2" with the Famag, so maybe speed 5 on the dial for 3-5 minutes after that rest period.

Please let me know…I'd be incredibly appreciative!

Autolyse almost always optional, whether you're mixing with a mechanical mixer or not. But with a mixer, since you can mix more efficiently, you can skip. When I use my mixer, I still do an autolyse most times, though, but again, it's optional and dependent on the flour you're using, hydration, schedule, and more.

It's very difficult to answer that! There are so many factors at play there. But as I mention above (and in my larger guide to mixing bread dough ), for a more open interior it's key that the dough needs to be strengthened sufficiently.

Yup, the breaker bar is key for preventing the dough from climbing up the hook.