If you're looking for a platform to mod, don't discount the Squier Vintage Modified SH. Not sure about quality consistency, but the one I have plays and sounds as good as a MIM Tele IMHO. After trying out the Squier at the music store, I did a direct comparison to various models including MIM, TexMex and US Teles, and didn't find a big difference between it and the MIM. Didn't hear a $600 or $700 difference between it and the made in US Tele either.
Duncan Designed humbucker in the neck, should be a standard bucker route.
Attachment 1274
Attachment 1275
This is a great little Tele for the price (I paid $350 CDN). I love the neck and gig with it about twice a month.
Trev
P.S. Drop over to the Fret Player section and post an introduction. Welcome to the Fret!