Just an observation, It appears that Stihl has made a change in the filter system. On my 026 the filter screws are flush with the filter surface when mounted and the actuator rod is black. The same as SteveSr's. I'm running a 026 Pro with the compression release.
On BMW's the actuator rod is orange and the filter mount screws are not flush. I'm guessing that is to allow the filter cover to lock over the screws.
Being that there are two different filters for the 026, could be possible he has bought the wrong one? Just a thought. His choke is definitely not going to work as it is now.
OT