Mixing-Matching Strings

[jalevinemd]

Are the string gauges in the sets matched specifically or can you mix and match without damaging the neck?
 
As I mentioned in a previous thread, I had to put heavier strings on Big Stubby (6 string guitar) to avoid a heat bend. It's worked out great except the low E sits a bit high in the bridge saddle. I don't want to re-cut the saddle or replace it as I'm more than likely going to go back to slightly lighter gauge strings after a few more months. So far things are going great and I'm actually going to tighten the rods abit this weekend.
 
I've got Skinny Top-Heavy Bottoms on:
10, 13, 17, 30, 42, 52
 
Regular Slinky's are:
10, 13, 17, 26, 36, 46
 
Can I substitute the 52 for a 46 or will this cause some unusual force that could be harmful to the neck?
 
Thoughts?

[flaxattack]

I doubt mixing will do anything bad- my guess is the mfgr picks the gauge to get itho best sound

[dannobasso]

I used bulk strings but they were not all of the same type. I bought a digital feeler gauge and would mix/match to string my many children. I would also use other makers and sometimes put on the bulk strings to make up the full sets I needed. That Being said I took advantage of a sale and bought a bunch of sets from DR, DMarkley, GHS, and D'Addario. All the same gauge and type. I must report much better consistent action and tone on all the basses I restrung (using the B's and C's from my bulk stock).
I would try to keep the sets uniform but replacing one for better tension should not be harmful. I restring most of my guitars with 11's and most came with 9's or 10's. They are all doing fine. Now you can boast about using a custom gauge set!

[flaxattack]

and i suspect with double truss rods. you can adjust for tension on the side involved if it did move the neck.
my g is a lot higher tension than my low b-med scale
so i tweaked my neck when necessary

[jalevinemd]

I guess the double truss rods would take care of any problems on the bass side.