Well, I have good news and bad news.
Bad News:
Apparently I should have done some more research on the grill as it was NOT a brand new grill. It is a 2015 model WiFi (WOW, go figure, someone lied on Craigslist!!). I did a complete cleaning on the grill this past Saturday (while smoking a Pork Shoulder in my Pit Barrel Cooker!). During the cleaning, I found the label on the back that says it is a 2015. After cleaning, I did a 1hr burn in at 350 degrees as new. I set the heat shield based on the pictures on the website but the temps were all over the place. I called GMG and Dan called me back within 30 min. He confirmed that it was a 2015 model and helped me with the heat shield placement. He also told me that they are basically the same as the 2017 models. The fire pot was moved to center on the new models mainly because of manufacturing. I finished my burn in and cooked 2lbs of thick cut bacon on it for seasoning. 180 for 1 hr and then bumped to 225 for a while and finally finishing on a pan on my gas grill.
Good News:
I still feel good about my purchase, albeit a bit annoyed about being lied to and not knowing the difference. The grill is in great condition and works perfectly. Customer services is amazing. Who calls back on a Saturday within 30 min other than maybe RecTec? That's service!! I feel better after taking to Dan about the grill and that it is not outdated in anyway. I feel good that I feel good that I will get it dialed in and running the way I want it in a few cooks.
I do have some Nomex coming for the lid as I like to seal up my grills. Also ordered a downdraft hood but that has a 2 week leadtime. I hope to have the heat shield placement figured out by then. I will post some pics once I get it where I want it.