Found some pictures of of the Fan control module (30864189). The original transistor is a MJ802 which is a 30 amp 200W transistor, twice the current rating of the 2N3055 which is 15 Amps 115W. That most certainly could explain the frequent failures. Whomever did the write up you placed your faith in...

It is not a bracket. It is a guard.
When installed, the verticals flank the fuel line connector at the fuel rail, to guard against accidental damage.