Axial fixation of a spring support part of a switchable tappet

Method for producing an axial fixation for a spring support part of a switchable tappet for direct transmission of a cam stroke to a tappet push-rod of a valve drive of an internal combustion engine, in which the tappet includes an inner part, which receives a force of a spring means, the spring support part acts as a support for the spring means and is fixed axially at least in a direction of force of the spring means to the inner part, the spring support part and the inner part enclose in a region of the axial fixation a common annular channel defined by formed parts thereof which are aligned with each other, in which a retaining ring is arranged for positive-fit connection of the spring support part with the inner part, the retaining ring is formed from an essentially straight wire with a generally constant cross-section, inserted into the annular channel through an opening arranged in the inner part or in the spring support part and opening into the annular channel, comprising at least the following steps:

• a) assembling the spring support part and the inner part in a relative position, in which the formed parts form the common annular channel for holding the retaining ring, and holding the parts in this position,
• b) feeding and threading a first end section of the wire forming the retaining ring through the opening into the annular channel and tangentially inserting of the wire into the annular channel while the spring support part and the inner part are held in position.