So OK I started noticing this on 526 this summer when radio set on hi ... reverts to low when you trigger the mike ...

same here on 505. fixed today by running direct fused line in 14 {about 4 ft} to the hot terminal of the solenoid ... which was handier than back to the switch.

don't know if this is the best solution. but it doesn't kick off high anymore.

Also Sea Tow now has automatic radio check that responds to your call ... duh ... and you hear a play back of your transmission ... really neat .

Automated VHF radio check info is at this link: http://www.seatow.com/boating_safety/ARC.asp