2002 Windstar New Trasmission Failed

Ok. My last post was september or '05 because of a transmissoin problem that let to a complete failure which left me,wife, and 3 kids stranded in Indiana. I had to spend $2800 for a tranny replacement. Now, after 36,000 miles, the new one has failed. This time, 600 miles from home. I will call the dealer when they open but I was hoping that someone could enlighten me a bit. Is there any one common problem that Ford has not fixed from one tranny to the next? Has anyone had much luck in getting Ford to pick up the cost of repair? I am right at the verge of the warranty experation and it depends on the exact mileage. How can I approach this to be sure they take care of me? I have never pulled a trailer and 95% of the time, it has only 300lbs of passengers inside. I can't believe thet the transmission should fail when it pretty much only pulling the weight of the vehicle. Most of the miles are highway miles too! Right now, all I have is 2nd gear with the blinking 0/o light and check engine light. Does having those sears car top carriers contribute to tranny failing?