I've noticed my manual pedal box in the EF is bent.
The cruise control didn't work which got me sussing it out, and that is the reason.
I've never had to pull one out, is it hard?
what's involved?
cheers.

Well I've done one.
I did it myself in 10 hours.
Remove the front seats and dash complete, just to get access to pedal box (might be able to be done if you undo all the bolts to the dash and have someone lift it up so you can gain access to the bolts retaining the pedal box.)
Removing the pedal box once you have access is easy.
find someone to repair and reinforce it or alternatively get a new one and have that reinforced.
Check firewall for cracks while its out and then the opposite of removal.
When the dash is it out its a perfect time to either upgrade to climate control (if you want it) or repair any wiring that looks dodge.

If you need any more info give us a holla.

You can pull the dash about 30 cms or so backward with most of the plugs still connected, you will need to disconnect the hot/cold cable from the airbox, and the blower fan power plug as well (both behind the glovebox), both tweeter plugs, plus the earth lead near the RH tweeter plug. The steering wheel and column can be dropped on the front seat, you can drop it to the floor, but undo the plate at the firewall - but this should not be needed. Put a rag on the column top cover, otherwise the dash will scratch it. You should be able to carefully pull the pedalbox up between the firewall and the dash.
I did my climate install/pedalbox change this way recently, wasn't too difficult.
EDIT: Check the clutch cable out as it will be probably binding.

the firewall has been repaired previously by the looks of it.
i think the clutch cable isnt sitting properly underneath the dash too.
i can live with it bent at the moment, i'll just space up the cruise control switch so it works as per normal.
i'll need a clutch soon, so while i'm at it i'll probably replace the cable and definitely repair or replace the pedal box.

whats involved to strengthen them?

Mig weld up the crack and add more metal to support it. An 'L' shaped piece as thick or thicker.