I am going back up to metro Detroit for a contract and am' currently in Charlotte. Having travelled the Yahoo Maps recommended route of N77 through a lot of high grades and two long tunnels in just the tow vehicle alone I was wondering if you more experienced travellers would suggest 40 east to I-75? The Jellico pass in northern Tennessee is much less stress than the multiple climbs and tunnels I noted driving the 77 route with just the van.
I know, I am a travelling newbie! 
Thanks all for any advice.

David, Buddie and Carol Lee.

Having crossed the Rockies many times, I wouldn't be concerned with crossing the much lower Appalachians in a properly powered rig. Once across, it's a flat drive to Detroit. A safe choice is to pick the roads that the large trucks use. Good luck and enjoy your trip,

Thank you Fred.

 Hey Dave,
 We've gone both of these routes. I prefer the I40 route. It's a little farther, but you don't have to pay tolls. I just don't like that climb from Beckley to Charleston, WV. Too many twist, turns and tunnels. 
  I-40 has a long hill up from Hendersonville,NC that's not bad. Jellico Mountain climb going north is not near as steep as going south. If you take that route make sure you take I-640 bypass around Knoxville to I-75 north.
  

    injunear
 

I agree with injunear on all counts.

Fred, are their mountains East of the Mississippi????

Only small ones Jack. More like tall hills.