You could get away with clipping the wires really close to the pot & switch. In fact, I would recommend that at the pot. They can be hard to get all the grounds soldered back up nice.
Then, any remaining issues with hum/crackle can be followed up. That would be a grounding issue or a bad connection somewhere (especially the input jack). Look for any broken looking connections and for any cold solder joints (they will look dull) that can be fixed. Does it have a trem? Make sure it is grounded.
I'm no expert, so I can't give you all the variables, but those would be some common things. Also, consider taking it to a tech if you aren't comfortable doing this stuff. To my surprise I've found most people don't actually work on their own guitars. :eek:
...so ever since then, I always hang on to the buckle.
