Product Description
When You Have a Tough Job to Do
You turn to hard workers to get it done right. The classic 1955-59 GMC truck is a hard worker that can handle just about any task, and it comes through when you need it.
Then you turn on the USA-230. It's a hard worker too, and its sound makes tough jobs feel easier.
It Has the Tools
The USA-230 has the tools to work hard all day, starting with 200 watts of power for first-rate performance.
A power antenna lead helps pull in clear signals, so your 16 AM/FM presets (12 FM, 4 AM) sound great in the cab.
The electronic tuner makes it easy: just press a button. You also get a 1/8-inch aux jack, 4-channel RCA pre-outs and a 4-way fader to get the best sound from every source.
When the work is done, a glance at the built-in digital clock tells you the time, so you won't be late for supper.
You Won't Regret It
Your 1955-59 GMC truck comes through when you need it, and the Custom Autosound USA-230 helps your tough jobs go smoother and easier.
This radio features:
● AM/FM stereo
● 200 Watts (4x50)
● Auxiliary Input (RCA Rear) RCA to 1/8" pin jack included
● Digital Clock
● Electronic Tuner
● 16 presets (12 FM, 4 AM)
● 4 Channel RCA Pre-outs
● 4-way fader
● Power Antenna Lead
Available with a black or chrome face
1955-59 GMC Truck USA-230 In Dash AM/FM FAQ
Do I need to modify the 1955-59 GMC Truck dash to install it?
This listing is the version made for the 1955-59 GMC Truck, designed to go into the original dash opening. Custom Autosound says its radios fit without altering or cutting the original dash.
Which add-ons are offered with this radio?
The options on this page let you add a front dual voice coil speaker, a rear 6x9 speaker pair (Custom Autosound 6x9 Speaker Pair and Upgraded Pioneer Speaker Pair), kick panels (W/Speakers, W/O Speakers, and Pioneer Upgrade), and a hideaway antenna.
What if my 1955-59 GMC Truck has air conditioning?
Select Yes or No under Factory Air so we send the correct setup for your 1955-59 GMC Truck's dash.
What do I get with the USA-230 in my 1955-59 GMC Truck?
It's rated at 200 watts (4x50) and has 4-channel RCA pre-outs, so you can add an outboard amplifier later. There's a rear RCA auxiliary input, and Custom Autosound includes an RCA to 1/8" pin jack cable for phones, MP3 players or satellite tuners.
What else should I know about the USA-230?
It has a digital clock, a 4-way fader and a power antenna lead. It skips the USB port, iPod dock and CD changer control found on the USA-630, but keeps the same look.
How does the USA-230 handle phone audio and connections?
The electronic tuner stores 16 presets, 12 FM and 4 AM.
USA-230 specifications
- 200 watts peak power (50W x 4)
- AM/FM stereo tuner
- RCA auxiliary input
- 12 FM and 4 AM presets
- Electronic tuning and volume
- 4-channel RCA pre-outs for an external amplifier
- Separate bass and treble controls
- 4-way fader and left/right balance
- Power antenna lead
- Designed for original classic dash openings (no DIN cut required for vehicle-specific faceplates)
- Custom Autosound 2-year manufacturer warranty
USA-230 wiring and tech tips
Use this as a head-unit reference for power, ground, antenna, speakers, and amplifier connections. Always match the printed diagram that ships with your unit if it differs.
Power and ground (typical Custom Autosound harness)
| Function | Wire color |
|---|---|
| Ignition / ACC +12V | Red |
| Battery / constant +12V | Yellow |
| Ground | Black |
| Power antenna | Blue |
Ignition and power-antenna leads are commonly fused at 1A on the harness—confirm against the guide that ships with your radio.
Speaker wiring (typical)
| Speaker | Wire color |
|---|---|
| Left front + / − | White / White-Black |
| Right front + / − | Gray / Gray-Black |
| Left rear + / − | Green / Green-Black |
| Right rear + / − | Violet (or Purple) / Violet-Black |
USA-230 extras
Use the rear RCA AUX for a wired player. Pre-outs support adding an amplifier later without replacing the radio.
Suggested order for a 1955-1959 GMC Truck
- Disconnect the vehicle battery before any wiring.
- Connect ground first, then constant (yellow) and ignition (red).
- Connect the antenna plug and the blue power-antenna lead if your car has a power antenna.
- Wire all four speakers, matching polarity.
- If using an amplifier, run RCA cables from the front/rear (and sub on USA-740/USA-850) pre-outs.
- Reconnect the battery and test radio, speakers, and charging system voltage.
Tech tips for 1955-1959 GMC Truck
- This radio is sold for the factory GMC Truck opening used in 1955-1959 models—do not cut a modern DIN rectangle if you want a stock look.
- A poor ground is the most common cause of whine or weak audio; scrape paint at the ground point and use a star washer.
- If AM reception is weak, check the antenna mast, cable continuity, and that the antenna plug is fully seated.
- Vintage Car Radio does not install radios. If you are not comfortable with 12V wiring, use a qualified installer.
USA-230 manuals
Download the manufacturer guide for operation, safety, and the official wiring diagram. You can also browse our full library on the Manuals page.
Vintage Car Radio does not offer installation. The manuals are for do-it-yourself reference or to share with your installer.
Two-Year Custom Autosound Warranty
All Custom Autosound radios sold by Vintage Car Radio are backed by a 2-year manufacturer warranty from Custom Autosound.
Radios are checked before shipping. If something is wrong out of the box or under warranty, call us at 844-802-4499 or 574-226-6676 and we will help coordinate with the manufacturer.
Vintage Car Radio does not offer installation services. Refer to the Manuals and Wiring / Tech Tips sections for manufacturer guidance, or use a qualified car-audio installer.
FAQ — 1955-1959 GMC Truck USA-230
Will this fit my 1955-1959 GMC Truck without cutting the dash?
It is built for the original radio opening used on 1955-1959 GMC Truck models. Compare your dash opening and bezel to the product photos. We do not modify dashes in-house.
Does this radio have Bluetooth?
The USA-230 is a wired/AUX-focused radio without built-in Bluetooth. Consider a USA-740 or USA-850 if you want Bluetooth built in.
Do I need an amplifier?
Many owners run speakers directly from the radio. Pre-outs are there if you want more volume or a subwoofer later.
Do you install the radio?
No. Vintage Car Radio ships the unit and documentation; installation is DIY or by a shop you choose.
What is the warranty?
Custom Autosound radios include a 2-year manufacturer warranty. See the Warranty section for details.
Need help?
Call 844-802-4499 or 574-226-6676.
Specs
Wiring / Tech Tips
Manuals
Warranty
Two-Year Custom Autosound Warranty
All Custom Autosound radios sold by Vintage Car Radio are backed by a 2-year manufacturer warranty from Custom Autosound.
Radios are checked before shipping. If something is wrong out of the box or under warranty, call us at 844-802-4499 or 574-226-6676 and we will help coordinate with the manufacturer.
Vintage Car Radio does not offer installation services. Refer to the Manuals and Wiring / Tech Tips sections for manufacturer guidance, or use a qualified car-audio installer.
