It seems from time to time the old topic of prototypical tie spacing is brought up in relation to various O gauge track systems available to us. I was in Palmyra, PA today and snapped this shot of the NS main line.
It would appear, even in the prototype, they can not agree on the tie spacing either. There is different spacing from tie 1 to 2, from 5 to 6 and from 8 to 9.
So I guess the message here is choose what YOU like best.
vr
Ron
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Tie spacing specifications for the real railroads is dependent on the FRA classification of the track.
Also, tie spacing is always closer at rail joints.
Jan
Tie spacing usually runs between 17" on center to 23" on centers, depending on the service the track will be in. The two normal sizes of ties are 6 X 8 and 7 X 9. Mostly 7 X 9 on the big railroads these days. as I recall joint tie spacing is usually 19" center to center.
Our tie spacing is on 21" centers. The ties in the picture are on CWR. The one that is off center quite a bit does not have anchors on it. When the tamper comes thru, it can be moved quite a bit.
Tie spacing at joints do not have to be closer. Depending on the class of track, you have to have one good tie within the prescribed distance. Yes, two are better than one.
Gene
Tie spacing usually runs between 17" on center to 23" on centers, depending on the service the track will be in. The two normal sizes of ties are 6 X 8 and 7 X 9. Mostly 7 X 9 on the big railroads these days. as I recall joint tie spacing is usually 19" center to center.
So there is a 5" leeway between full scale RR ties, that translate to 0.35" to 0.48" spacing on O scale 1/48 tracks, and a tolerance of about +/- 0.1" between the ties, yes?
Some people make a big "discussion" about the model track that are available today.
So, what is the closest to real life "tie spacing" track in 2R and 3R available today...Just the spacing we are talking about, nothing else to keep focused 
If you were to observe the mainline of a major railway, you would see much closer tolerances than that shown in your photo.
Tall, short, long stride, baby steps, tie spacing is always just sufficient to break your stride. 
Tall, short, long stride, baby steps, tie spacing is always just sufficient to break your stride.
Right on.. perfect though if over 70.
If you were to observe the mainline of a major railway, you would see much closer tolerances than that shown in your photo.
Well I think that is the point here. This IS a major mainline railway and there is obviously some difference.
Admittedly my original post was just a touch of sarcasm to say that no matter what track system you select, you can probably find some track spacing on prototype rail somewhere that resembles what you have or what you like.
So like what you have and enjoy running your trains.
Ron
My above comment is based on the standard practices of the PRR. The overall track spacing is depended on the use. The need for ties on each side of the joint is to provide vertical support on each rail end. The joint bar cannot provide the same vertical resistance as the solid rail. When the end alignment slips the rail top is blunted by the continued impact of the wheels, and the wheels get gouged.
Jan
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