1999 Tranfer Case with drive shaft play?

I have a 1999 suburban 4X4 1500 with 200.000 miles on it. I notice a creaking sound the other day coming from about the transfer case area. Think it was a u-joint on the front shaft I slid under it and found the drive shaft to transfer case had about ½ inch play up and down as well as side ways. After reading all the posts I believe it to be a read bearing in the transfer case. Could this much movement be normal? And any idea how much time I have to replace it because money it tight this month. Might I get 6,000 more miles out of it? Thanks Dave

That much play is not normal. more than a few thousands is all it should have. I would not take it on a long trip.