The following company offers a rebuilt trans for $700.00
http://www.phoenixhardparts.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvShipping is about 100 to you and 100 in sending yours back.
My experience has to NEVER go to the dealer for such major engine or trans work........
FORD's management made some serious cost cutting mistakes that have come to haunt them........Do I have a Contour, yes....do I like my Contour....yes....I do my own repairs.....will I buy another Ford.....quite simply no.
Good Luck,
Bob