Has anyone tried to access the tail light housing by splitting it after applying heat?

I want to paint over the chrome strips inside the tail light to get a nice custom look (similar to the HD Tail Lights that cost ~$300). I'm trying to do this at the lowest cost possible. In theory I could split it, paint it, then seal it back with gasket or silicone sealant.

Any suggestions? Or if someone has tried this in the past please share.

Thanks!

 

should work about the same as baking headlights i reckon... but ive never tried it before.