I'm glad you asked about the spacing becuase that was to be my next point to make.
Yes, it is best to keep the top 3 voices no further than an ocatave apart (for now).
When it comes to spacing, we have what is called "Open" and "Closed" Position.
In "closed position" all upper three voices are as close as possible within a single octave. If not then, the position is "open" with more than an octave between the soprano and tenor voice. Chossing and "open" or "closed" position will detrmine intensity or any given harmony/harmonic progression (see attachment).