How do I replace the altenator belt on a 1996 Nissan Maxima?

Here's a link to your timing belt. Repair Guides Engine Mechanical Timing Belt AutoZone com

If you changed the belt, that means that you have been having problems with your altenator. You battery is probably dead.

Its likely the tenisinor was the cause of the alternator problem in the first place its a big ware part leeding cause of belt failure water pump alternator power steering and ac compressers . You would be wise to replace it 96 likely has never been done .And its far cheaper then all of the above parts 20 to 30 dollars

Have an auto electrician CHECK ur HARGiNG system! Either ur battery got problem or the alternator! Alternator should have 13 to 14 volts output while running! Taah!

Sorry for the delayed response.
CLICK on the following LINK. It has the Belt Diagrams and Adjustment information you will need.
If you would: Before Clicking: Let me know if this helped you, or if you have any additional information or questions. Feel Free to contact me at FixYa.com!
Again my apologies...
Thanks.

http://www.2carpros.com/car_repair_information/year/1996/make/nissan/model/maxima/1996_nissan_maxima_drive_belt_routing_diagram.htm

these engines have a timing belt and should be changed every 60,000 miles.

check out www.maxima.org

If you have a new altenator and your battery is still dying, then you may have a short somewhere in the wiring. Do you have an aftermarket cd player? How long between uses that the battery dies? Do you have clocks that stay on all the time or anything like that?
You either have a shorted wire or a device that demands constant power.

http://www.autozone.com/shopping/repairGuide.htm?pageId=0900c15280076184
http://www.autozone.com/shopping/repairGuide.htm?pageId=0900c15280076113

Yes, some of them are next to impossible. They are all difficult to work on. Good luck.