all the MTD's i've seen the brackets overlap each other at the 11 oclock position (i have 5 of these bikes, they are all like that.) and they don't need to sit flat, they are just holding a cover. it's nothing that requires intense specs. also you can 'tweak' the brackets if needed. just put an adjustable wrench on them, and they can be gently adjusted if needed.
in addition, these brackets can be used on other bikes/covers. for example, i use them on speedway bikes to hold the speedway clutch cover.