I'd like to use the mechanical aspects of a two-way splitter to
> act as a "tee" for DC power distribution. This seems infinitely
> easier than trying to wire a bunch of connectors together.
>
> Most of the devices I've encountered have a "back" that is soldered
> in place as a solid shield.
>
> There's a bit of mass, there, so I am wondering how much
> effort it will be to try to remove the back, gut the device,
> replace with a length of wire and reattach the back piece.
I'd have done something like that 40 years ago. These days I'd be wary of whether there could be any circumstances where some lawyer tells me I haven't complied with the relevant power distribution regulations.