Transfer case linkage rattle
 

I have a 1995 4Runner that has the transfer case shifter rattling. Got underneath and found that the elaborate linkage with two apparent grease filled boots had at least the lower one with a lot of play and possibly the rattle came from there. Disassembled and put about as much lube grease in as possible on both and particularly the lower one that has the greatest play, yet by nature of this mechanism, it has play anyway. That helped for a couple 1000 miles. I'm wondering if I need a much heavier grease than lube grease. The shim type bearings seemed OK. Why is this linkage so complicated?