NP205 rebuild question

Just rebuilt my transfer case. Still on the bench. When i install the poppet balls and springs on the shift rails, it gets harder to shift as I tighten them. Shifts great when they are loose. When I crank them down, I cant shift it without a lot of force. Had to replace the rods, because when i removed the old ones the balls had worn a detent into the rods about as deep as half the ball. Feel like I should put weaker springs, but looking for some input. Thanks.