Looks like PolyTools.ms in the install folder sets the move tool in line 3556. I commented it out, and it seems to return to the previous tool like Select, Rotate, or Scale. You need to Run as Admin to edit the file, but I can't guarantee it won't break anything else.
Yes, I use "select object" instead the default one, another annoying default from MAX as swaps to unwanted selection modes. Anyway I don't think this affects the tendency that has Max to "move tool" mode even if you choose "select object" Q when coming from other modes. This is MAX 2017 but I think 2018 is the same and…