Honda Accord 2013 EX-L V6 106k miles

The catalytic converter gave out (or so I was told) after the code started showing up
Replaced to an aftermarket Cat without heatshield from the first shop for $1800
AC problems started after this - AC runs fine for the first 10 minutes and then the compressor shuts off.

Another shop is saying on Accords, you must put OEM cats only since aftermarket doesn't come with a heat shield
And heat is melting the alternator and compressor connections now. So I need $1000 compressor and very soon need $700 for an Alternator if I run with a hot converter like this.

So, my options are:
A) Try to have them find an aftermarket heatshield if there is one or make one from a metal sheet
or
B) Drop another $1800 to get OEM CAT (on top of already paid 1800 for aftermarket CAT)


What are your thoughts on the situation?

1) Are aftermarket cats not as good and go with OEM?
2) Are no heatshield claims by the second shop true since V6 engines are large and parts are packaged a bit closer to the hot cat?

 

I remember there was a heat shield for my muffler (I ripped the old one off because it was all rusted). I had talked to a mechanic about it. The mechanic stated, it wasn't necessary to have that heat shield. I'm not sure about the catalytic converter. I can't remember if that had a heat shield. And I don't remember having to have to only use a OEM cat with my 1993 honda accord. I just bought a generic one. The cheapest one I could find on ebay. I don't know how many years ago it was.

Of course things might be different from 2013.

You can make a heat shield. I did for my muffler. Just pick something up at the hardware store and mod it. That seems like way too much money they are asking for.

 

I'd probably use some sheet metal and bend my own heat shield. Since you have a V6, the converter on the other bank should still have its OEM heat shield as a reference.