completely remove all and any trace and history of s printer install

here are helpfull information you can follow  
http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/windows_7-hardware/i-want-to-removedelete-printerdriver-from-windows/6700d817-cfb7-4d94-904e-25bc8f435c7f
http://theitbros.com/remove-windows-vista7-printer-driver/

A way to remove all the drivers is to open up the command prompt in Administrator Mode. Type the following;

set devmgr_show_nonpresent_devices=1

start devmgmt.msc

Then, select the option to Show Hidden Devices.

This will show you ALL the installed devices this system has EVER had.   Just simply right- click and uninstall. :)

Petben030--Use Revouninstaller.  Step 4 will remove all Registry leftovers.
http://www.revouninstaller.com/revo_uninstaller_free_download.html

thanks I will look at the suggestions Monday. I need to apply the fix to 500 win 7 computers, are there any ideas for scripted or at least remote methods?

Petben030--And an image does not include the problems?
Perhaps you meant System Restore?  Or Repair Install?

I'm rebuilding the computers using Ghost.

Petben030--Why do you think an image will not contain the same problems you now have?

it will not contain any previous print driver installs, it is just win7 plus a few bits and pieces. all the rest is installed via msi and GPO.

no options worked