It seems like the MTH users tend to have the strand almost "pinched" between the two resistors to ensure that they're making good contact with the heat source. This appears to also be how they come from the factory according to your pic.
And, as GGG said, be sure that the notch that exists in the top edge of the smoke bowl (which allows good airflow from the fan to the smoke chamber and out though the stack) is unobstructed by the batting.
