Why do things always happen in 3's 205 off the road with clutch release problems & possible big end failure (or maybe loose flywheel or shot thrust washers). Pug with major slipping clutch and now a 185 with a cracked pedalbox & unable to disengage clutch.

Looks like it's broken right up at the top. Pedal only comes halfway back up after pressing. If it's lifted by hand, you can see the top end of the pedalbox flexing back upwards.

I gather it's a known problem. Are there any guides as to what to strip out to get to it / remove it for welding or do I just set about it & use common sense ?

Hard to beat common sense Chris