well folks, i posted this question to the list a few weeks ago, and only one
listmember actually came thru with the info.  i would like to personally thank
listmember dylan friedman from NY. for finding the information out.. thanks
dylan.

here are the spring rate color codes - this is how you tell what model the
springs were from.  stock springs are painted black but they have colored
markings put on them at the factory to differentiate their application and ride
height.

1)the factory "lowering springs"  that came on vanagon Carat and wolfsburg
passenger vans are color coded with yellow marks.

2) most late model GL's have light purple marks

3) Syncro's have blue marks

hope this helps...good information to have, if you have some used springs
sitting around and want to know what model they are from or what ride height they
give..

chris