Question concerning string gauges (I'm new)

[thor16]

Well, I want to change out my strings on my bass. Currently I have the strings which came from the factory, and they are .045, .065, .80, .100. How strictly to I have to stay with these gauges?

[r379]

You don't have to stay with those gauges. The only trouble you might have is fitting larger gauges. If they won't fit into the nut slots get someone (a guitar tech, for instance) who knows what they are doing to widen the nut slots for you. If you try to force the strings into the nut you run the risk of breaking it.