Thanks for the feed back. Apparently my truck was built six months before the buyback cut off date. Not super happy as my steering is still subject of the recall and still no parts to fix...
So since that is off the table I can cool my jets (buy back ends in Jan 6th) and realize my next step.
Most likely wait until the '18 is out like my original plan. Although due to my trucks demand, I have two standing offers to buy. So I still might buy now...but I'll just factory order if I go new. I cannot find a shortbed 3500 in this state.