230sl rear brakes (thickness)

[jpmbca]

Hello:
I'm hoping one of the members can shed some light on some rear brake questions:
1. What is the minimum thickness for the rear shoes? Is it 1.5mm
2. I've been reading about re-lining the shoes.  If I go this route, can someone confirm how thick the "max" is?  (i.e. what would the thickness of the shoes be when new?)

Many thanks.

[vande17941]

I think the minimum friction material thickness should be very conservative, especially in the event the brake shoes could possibly be original. I have had shoes completely separate from their friction material damaging the hyper expensive drums . If it looks like they're getting low at all, just get them relined to be safe. The risk isn't worth it. Especially when one of the shoes friction material comes loose and gems inside the drum... All hell breaks loose.

[Benz Dr.]

I think front pads are about 3 - 4 mm minimum so I imagine rear shoes would be in that same range.