Typical with long-time-in-service Yanmar control panel tachometers .... corrosion in the 'pointer' bearings. Test: After starting and the needle doesnt move, next time 'rap' the edge of the tach with a solid plastic 'object' - each 'hit' will advance the needle until you get a constant max. indication.
Either replace the tach or take it to an 'instrument tech' who will 'clean and repair' the bearings, etc. A weatherproof clear 'cover' over a Yanmar engine control panel will save a lot of 'grief' with corroded, etc. instruments, starter buttons, key switches, etc.