Winner! That is exactly what my shotgun adjustment plates look like. This theory is also supported by the numbering, which indicates the level of adjustment.
My advice is to trade it in towards a 700. I'm being serious. In the long run you will have a rifle you trust rather than a rifle you had to fix. Wouldn't go into the woods like that.
I have acquired a Stevens 77E that needs a new barrel. Is this a gunsmith only job. I cannot tell if the barrel will come out of the receiver or if it is a solid piece. Any help would be greatly appreciated.