what's the proper way to seal the cylinder head bolts? The instructions say go one thread up and seal 3/4 of that thread, that doesn't seem like much

 

I believe what the instructions may mean are to apply sealant to 3/4 of the length of the threads on the bolt. Keep the sealant off the first thread if possible to ease installation. Personally, I just apply sealant to the lower half of the threads and let it distribute as it is threaded into the hole.

Try to get an anerobic sealant, such as Loctite/Permatex PST pipe sealant. It is NOT a regular teflon pipe thread dope, but a sealant. Regular pipe dope can wash out and allow leaks.