We are looking at purchasing a 2014 Chevy Silverado 1500 5.3L V8 (LT package). They are telling us that it has built in all of the towing/braking that we need to tow our current travel trailer and the trailer we will soon upgrade to (3500 to 5000 lbs). They say we do not need the added brake controller, cooler, suspension, etc... Is that true?

After many years of trailer towing, it has been my experience to get as much as you can afford. As big a motor, as much trailer equipment, and as big a capacity (up to 1 ton) as you can. You may, from time to time, cuss the gas mileage or the heavy ride, but when the day comes you're towing, you'll be happy with all of this extra equipment/capacity. I owned a single rear wheel, 4 door, 1 ton with a 454 for years. Used it to tow a 36' travel trailer all over the United States. Yeah, the gas mileage was down to about 6 mpg at times, but never once fell behind climbing any mountains. Use to pass big trucks at 70 mph climbing through some mountains. Was very happy with this combo.