I remove the fan leaves as the plant grows - starting at about 20 days. After topping they usually always have some big ass fan leaves blocking bud sites below. Last 2 plants I topped they didn't slow down for a day - I take them off 2 at a time, always side by side.
If one grows an auto naturally without topping - then I take off the big fan leaves, again - always two side by side, and always when the plant is small and just has about 5 or 6 nodes happening.
When the plant has pistils starting the plant should look like a Christmas tree. Should have 8 solid branches growing up the sides and the main cola.