As to the soaking times, I have gone +/-2 hours on both soaking and resting drained with no problems. I generally soak for 6-10 (aiming for 8) and drain and let sit moist for the same.
To remove the rootlets, put the dried grain into a large bucket so there is a good bit of room left, I use a five gallon bucket and do it in 5 pound batches. Put the lid on and shake it like crazy. This will knock the rootlets free. Then set up a fan or shopvac set to blow just above a second bucket. Pour the grain through the air stream into the second bucket. If you aim carefully the grain will land in the bucket and the rootlets and such will blow away. This makes a mess so don't do it in your kitchen. Repeat until cleared to your liking.
I'm curious as to what it is, I thought I had malted everything under the sun, so the idea that I missed something has me intrigued.
Good luck.