When does string tension become dangerous?

[Mr_Music90]

I've been using some heavy string gauges for a while now : .045 - .065 - .085 - .110 - .140.

I can't really say it affects the bass neck more, then the standard gauge string that was on first : .045 - .065 - .080 - .100 - .130. I check the neck about three times a week and tweek it when I think I have to.

But when does string tension becomes dangerous for the neck? Is it is you have a thin neck like an Ibanez SoundGear with heavy string gauges or if you up tune strings?

[Lemon Of Troy]

Tuning up will definitely cause some problems, mainly broken strings. Do not tune up.

Nothing wrong with those gauges. It's at the high end of the spectrum, but still normal.

[iiipopes]

There is nothing unreasonable about those gauges. It should be fine. A tweak of the truss rod, yes, but nothing out of the ordinary.

[El-Bob]

I think that the string will probably break before it becomes unsafe for the neck.

[FretlessMainly]

Originally Posted by El-Bob

I think that the string will probably break before it becomes unsafe for the neck.

I'm not sure I'd rely on this advice. I can envision tuning a bass up a step and the strings would be far from breaking, but the increased tension from four up-tuned strings could adversely affect a bass neck.

[walterw]

i have to think that as long as the neck is adjusted to be straight there's no problem.

the danger comes from a neck with a big upbow (regardless of string gauge) that's left that way for a long time; eventually the wood gets "used to" that shape and won't want to straighten out again.

[KingRazor]

I tend to stay below 50 pounds of tension per string.