I have no idea if this will help but see software sharing

Make sure exe is not included on your filter terms for either extensions or keywords.

'Normally' such files should be compressed as a zip or rar or disk image or other. So perhaps you're seeking in the incorrect way. When it's freeware of course just get a hold of the original download link (we sometimes forget that.) Freeware is such a great concept! "Pushes it in front of the abusers!"