Chevrolet Repair: 1988 Chevy, chevy caprice classic, chevy caprice

Question
Hi Van , I got a 1988 Chevy Caprice-Classic V8 5.0L 4bbl carb. engine I recently took the car in for an oil change and the mech. had called me up telling me there is carbon build-up in the engine and that they have a SPECIAL machine to clean out the engine and flush it out. They want to charge me $250 to do that which is seems a little too much, how much does something like really cost, and is it possibly I can flush it myself over the weekend. Also like I told you I see a big puffy of smoke when I start and I get bad performance when I try to go up hills, could all these be connected. Again I appreciate all your help you have given me.

Answer
I would tell them maybe next time, and think about it. Don't be rushed into something, then check around, and maybe get an opinion from someone who knows cars, and looks at yours.
And yes, they could be connected, but just don't rush to spend the money.
Van